Issues - Unions and Democracy

Unions do far more than negotiate benefits for its own workers. Unions have fought to strengthen public policies that benefit all Americans, both unionized and non-unionized. And as corporate power and influence has skyrocketed in recent years, unions have provided a powerful mechanism for voter turnout that keeps our democracy strong.

Historically, unions have fought to strengthen public policies that benefit all Americans, both unionized and non-unionized. Unions have fought to strengthen minimum wage laws, worker safety protections, and public safety nets. We have unions to thank for the two-day weekend and the 40-hour workweek. More recently, unions have fought to strengthen minimum wage laws, worker safety protections, and public safety nets. Continue...

Tell the your elected officials to preserve and strengthen the estate tax. In the face of the fiscal cliff, raising more revenue from the estate tax is the best solution to avoid painful cuts. Preserving vital social programs (like Head Start, food stamps, and community development block grants) is more important than tax breaks for the top 0.15% of Americans. But this isn’t just about the dollar figures. It’s about our shared values as a society and the creation of equal opportunities for everyone.

An out-of-context quote from President Obama became the theme of last week's Republican National Convention. In March, UFE published The Self-Made Myth, which contrasts the "self-made myth" with the "built-together reality." So who built it? UFE looked to the stories of successful businesspeople to generate a more meaningful discussion on this issue and its implications on public policy.

Boycott Hyatt and cast your vote to join the movement to make them change there ways. Hyatt has replaced career housekeepers with temp workers earning minimum wage. Hyatt housekeepers have heavy workloads that can lead to debilitating pain and injuries. Hyatt has fired women shortly after they have spoken out about abuse and indignities at work.

How can organizations working for tax fairness cultivate a strong and loyal donor base? This free Tax Fairness Tune-Up webinar will provide practical tips for grassroots organizers to build a strong donor program to keep supporters engaged year after year. Register today!